4 prominent former Commanders still on the free-agent scrap heap in 2023
By Dean Jones
Landon Collins – Former Commanders S
After a three-year stay with the Washington Commanders, Landon Collins became a salary-cap sacrifice once the 2021 campaign came to a conclusion. The veteran safety took his time finding a new home, which ended up being back where it all started with the New York Giants.
Collins spent the first four campaigns of his professional career at MetLife Stadium – earning one Pro Bowl honor – before switching to an NFC East rival. The move saved Washington around $6.6 million on their cap and allowed the flourishing young safety duo of Kamren Curl and Darrick Forrest to become more influential along the way.
The former second-round pick was used as a rotational piece last season, turning out in 40 percent of the Giants’ defensive snaps from the six games he was available. Collins was a real asset in coverage – giving up just 61.5 percent of targets and a lowly 40.5 passer rating – which earned the one-time Alabama star a creditable 65.6 grade from Pro Football Focus for good measure.
Despite these encouraging displays, Collins hasn’t been given a contract extension as yet. Something that could change in the near future depending on what the Giants end up doing during the 2023 NFL Draft.
The player should get another shot somewhere at 29 years old. It’s finding a spot where he’ll have a legitimate chance of factoring into the defensive rotation that’s the biggest issue.